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Nixtamalized maize flours elaborated by four factories in Mexico were used for tortilla preparation. Samples were stored at 4 degrees C for up to 72 h and their in vitro starch digestibility features were evaluated. Moisture content was different between flour and tortilla but no evident relation could be established. Protein and lipid levels were lower in tortillas than in flour but ash content was not different in both samples. A decrease in available starch content was observed upon 48 h cold storage (4 degrees C), changes that were concomitant with increased total resistant starch (RS) levels. These changes were due mainly to retrogradation, as suggested by the increased retrograded resistant starch (RRS) levels recorded in stored tortillas; in some samples, RRS represented up to 100% of total RS. The digestion (alpha-amylolysis) rate (DR) of freshly prepared tortillas differed for the various samples. Although the amylolysis patterns for fresh and 72 h-stored tortillas were similar, lower DR values were shown for the stored materials. The differences found among the various tortilla samples may be due to variations in processing conditions during commercial maize flour preparation, and to the use of different maize varieties.

Banana is a starchy food that contains a high proportion of undigestible compounds such as resistant starch and nonstarch polysaccharides. Products with low glycemic response such as pasta are considered favorable to health. The objective of this study was to use unripe banana flour to make spaghetti with low-carbohydrates digestibility and evaluate its physical and texture characteristics, as well as consumer preference. Formulations with 100% durum wheat semolina (control) and formulations with 3 semolina: banana flour ratios (85: 15, 70: 30, and 55: 45) were prepared for spaghetti processing. The use of banana flour decreased the lightness and diameter of cooked spaghetti, and increased the water absorption of the product. Hardness and elasticity of spaghetti were not affected by banana flour, but adhesiveness and chewiness increased as the banana flour level in the blend rose. Spaghettis prepared in the laboratory (control and those with banana flour) did not show differences in preference by consumers. In general, the preference of spaghettis with different banana flour level was similar. The addition of a source of undigestible carbohydrates (banana flour) to spaghetti is possible without affecting the consumer preference.